By: Habte H.
In leadership, legacy is everything – it defines how a leader is remembered and how their impact shapes the future. But legacy is not about superficial displays or short-term gestures designed merely to impress the public or foreign visitors. It is not about flashy projects or symbolic acts that capture attention briefly but quickly fade from collective memory. Yet, this is exactly the approach Abiy Ahmed, and his PP seem to embrace as genuine progress.
Abiy often describes himself as a misunderstood visionary – convinced that today’s generation may not grasp his greatness, but that future generations will look back with admiration. But this narrative feels less like leadership and more like self-consolation. It is a mindset shaped by ill-advisors like D(G)aniel k, who mistake spectacle for substance and who encourage the illusion that style can replace structure. What emerges is a leadership approach obsessed with visibility, but lacking depth.
This thinking reveals two critical problems. First, it is a coping mechanism – a way to believe something great has been achieved, even when real, measurable progress is scarce. Second, it reflects the danger of being trapped in an echo chamber, surrounded by voices that reinforce illusions rather than confront truth. When cosmetic fixes are mistaken for national development, the result is a fragile narrative, not a lasting legacy.
The truth is a few spruced-up spaces and temporary showcases cannot substitute for the deeper, structural investments that Ethiopia desperately needs. Legacy is not what glitters in a photo op – it is what grows and strengthens a nation over time. And it is time to get honest about what that really looks like. Here is what good leaders leave behind:
1. Strong Institutions and Systems – Real leaders do not build their legacies on slogans or strong personalities. They build institutions – transparent, fair, and resilient. They create systems that survive transitions, safeguard public trust, and serve people beyond their own time in office. A few flashy projects cannot replace the quiet, steady work of building systems that make justice and opportunity accessible to all.
2. A Strong, Inclusive Education System – One of the most powerful legacies a leader can leave is a quality education system – one that does not just exist, but uplifts. It must reach every child, regardless of gender, geography, or economic background. Education must spark critical thinking, nurture creativity, and prepare the next generation not just to work, but to lead. Inclusive education closes gaps, opens minds, and transforms futures.
3. A Culture of Integrity and Accountability – Leadership is about setting a moral compass. Great leaders model the kind of honesty and responsibility they expect from others. They build cultures where corruption is not tolerated, where transparency is the norm, and where criticism is met with reflection – not retaliation. Integrity is not something to perform; it is something to live, especially when no one is watching.
4. A Clear and Inspiring Vision – True leadership begins with a bold, inclusive vision – a roadmap shaped by collective values, not personal ambition. This vision does not remain rigid but grows with time and circumstance. It speaks to dignity, sustainability, and equity. When a leader plants a vision that others can believe in, carry forward, and build upon, that is when legacy begins.
5. Invested and Empowered People – A true leader does not hoard power – they pass it on. They invest in people: mentoring young leaders, empowering communities, and ensuring everyone has the chance to shape the future. Leadership becomes a shared journey, not a solo performance. When leaders multiply voices instead of silencing them, they create a legacy that cannot be undone.
6. Courageous Examples and Hard Lessons – Perhaps most importantly, real leaders leave behind the truth. Not polished myths, but real stories – of missteps, resilience, growth, and moral courage. By sharing their failures alongside their victories, they demystify leadership and inspire others to lead with humility. Their honest reflections become maps for others navigating the future.
In Conclusion – Legacy is not what you build for yourself – it is what you leave behind for others. It is not painted fences or choreographed festivals. It is not wrapped in slogans or glorified conflict. A real legacy lives in people, systems, values, and the courage to face truth.
Leaders like Abiy Ahmed should take note: history will not be written by propaganda teams, but by the outcomes that endure. The judgment will come not from future headlines, but from future lives.
If you want to be remembered, do not plant fake grass, Plant roots.
Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
__
Support Borkena : https://borkena.com/subscribe-borkena/
Join our Telegram Channel : t.me/borkena
Like borkena on Facebook
Add your business to Ethiopian Business Listing / Ethiopian Business Directory Business Listing Toronto
Join the conversation. Follow us on X (Formerly Twitter) @zborkena to get the latest Ethiopian News updates regularly. Subscribe to YouTube channel To share information or for submission, send e-mail to info@borkena.com
A great educational principles, must be adhered and envisioned by all politicians in power not only Abey Ahmad.